iTunes Review

The sense of cinematic focus is evident throughout the film’s soundtrack, whether recasting “Seasons of Love” as a muscular new crowd-pleasing opener or torching up “Light My Candle” and “Take Me or Leave Me” several degrees via duets that now feature Rosario Dawson/Adam Pascal and Idina Menzel/Tracie Thoms, respectively. “Love Heals,” a previously unfinished Larson overture, now serves as the saga’s warm coda.

Customer Reviews

Sure I love the OBCR but...

by
JackPMoore

First off the Original Broadway Cast album was not a soundtrack it was a cast recording. Next, I love the OBCR, and I love Rent, but let's not be stupid. The Original Recording was very flawed. Much of the dialogue recorded gave the impression that few of them could actually act, not to mention the problems with mixing (ISTY and LVB B run into eachother horrribly on the Original album) and the infamous "I have always Love you" in Your eyes (among other similar errors). This soundtrack also has its flaws, but it presents the show with the sound it needs to effectively transfer over to the big screen (i.e. it sounds like a rock band is playing it, and doing so with passion. Many people on this recording demonstrate wonderful acting chops, that weren't seen from them in 1996 (*cough* The Adam *cough*). In my opinion Tracie Tomms single-handedly makes Joanne matter. She turns what is usually a somewhat blah part into a powerhouse performance. Everyone from the OBC sounds better hear except for Adam, whose performance is up for debate. I personally feel he acts every word of his songs this time through skillfully, but many people say he seems to have lost some power in his voice, possibly due to smoking or old age. They would, of course, be wrong, and you would agree if you check out the AFA Hair concert recording, with "I got Life" sung by Adam. Check it out. You won't regret it. Rosario Dawson's voice also has been the center of debate (specifically how much was her voice "sweetened" on the recording). I think she acts the part of Mimi through her songs, and plays it much more understated than DRV. Her voice is smooth and jazzy, and particularly shines on Without You and Another Day. My only major complaint is the backings are sometimes too loud (Out Tonight), or the spots the choose to begin a song from seem strange (obviously LVB took some getting used to with its new beginning.). A great album that is a must have for any fan of the show. Don't buy into the "I love my OBCR so much, and nothing can be better." In many was this is superior in some it is not. Own them both. Love them both. (Just remember the OBCR has its flaws too).

Great New Interpretation

by
bwayvocals

It must be understood that this is for FILM and not stage - the sound is bigger, and more digitized. Initially, it did in fact sound like a VH1 version of the show, but I quickly fell in love with it. Standout performances: Adam Pascal, Jesse Martin, Anthony Rapp and Tracie Thoms. As incredible as Idina Menzel is, she seemed to phone this one in. Rosario Dawson is definitely altered in spots, but overall her sweet sound is wonderful. Highlights: the arrangement of "Out Tonight" and "Rent", Tracie and Jesse in "Seasons of Love", Jesse's charm and energy in "Santa Fe", anything that Adam does - especially "What You Own" with Anthony. Most overlooked performer: Anthony Rapp. He is the golden thread to this piece. Happy Listening!

An overall great investment.

by
La Becca

Rent is one of my favorite Broadway shows and I have confidence that the movie version will live up to its expectations. With everyone throwing a fit over how different this soundtrack is compared to the OBC recording, I must point out, OF COURSE it sounds different! The story and the music have been adapted to film, which is an entirely different medium, so of course there will be modifications/alterations in the movie soundtrack.
Overall, the soundtrack is successful. Adam Pascal's voice, yes, does have a different tone to it, but I think it's effective. Roger doesn't seem as boyish as in the OBCR. Rosario Dawson has a beautiful voice, and I think it's ridiculous to base her portrayal of Mimi on her singing voice alone. It's not a requirement for stripper-drug addicts to have nasally voice like Ruba-Vega. I also love (I'm probably one of the few) Idina Menzel's "Over the Moon" performance. It's a lot more subtle but I think it's hilarious. I think it will play well on screen.
Personal favorite: "Another Day" -- It's always been my favorite song, even on the OBCR, but I love Adam's intensity paralled with Rosario's sweet voice on the soundtrack version.